Straighten Your Smile for a More Confident You
At Cohen Dentistry, our experienced Harris, NY dentist, Dr. Jeffrey Cohen, prides himself on providing top-quality orthodontic care tailored to your individual needs. Whether you’re considering traditional braces or exploring other orthodontic options, Cohen Dentistry is equipped with the latest technology and expertise to ensure optimal results. At Cohen Dentistry, we believe in not just straightening teeth, but also in transforming lives by helping you achieve a healthier, more confident smile that lasts a lifetime.
Are you ready to enhance your smile? Learn more about how to achieve a brighter, straighter smile by calling (845) 794-4545.
What Are Traditional Braces?
Traditional braces are orthodontic appliances used to correct misaligned teeth and bite issues. They consist of metal brackets, wires, and bands that work together to gradually shift teeth into proper alignment. Despite the emergence of newer orthodontic treatments, traditional braces remain a widely used and effective option for many individuals.
Benefits of Traditional Braces
Traditional braces can offer various benefits, including:
- Effective Correction: Traditional braces can effectively correct various dental issues, including overcrowding, spacing problems, crooked teeth, and bite misalignments.
- Affordability: Compared to some newer orthodontic treatments, traditional braces are often more affordable, making them accessible to a broader range of patients.
- Customizable: Braces can be customized to suit individual needs, with options for different colors of bands and brackets.
Candidacy for Traditional Braces
Candidates for traditional braces include individuals with:
- Crooked or misaligned teeth
- Overcrowded teeth
- Bite issues such as overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- Gaps between teeth
How the Procedure Works
Initial Consultation: Your Harris orthodontist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and discuss treatment options.- Placement: Brackets are bonded to the front of teeth, and wires are threaded through the brackets.
- Adjustments: Regular visits to Cohen Dentistry are necessary for adjustments to the braces, gradually shifting the teeth into the desired position.
- Duration: Treatment duration varies but typically lasts from 18 months to 3 years, depending on the severity of the case.
How to Take Care of Braces
To properly care for your braces, it’s essential to follow these tips:
- Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, paying extra attention to cleaning around the brackets and wires.
- Dietary Restrictions: Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage the braces.
- Orthodontic Wax: Use orthodontic wax to alleviate discomfort caused by brackets or wires rubbing against the inside of your mouth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can still engage in musical activities with braces; however, it may take some time to adjust to playing certain instruments. Some musicians find that using specialized orthodontic wax on their braces can help reduce discomfort while playing wind or brass instruments.
Yes, wearing retainers is typically recommended after braces are removed to maintain the alignment of your teeth. Your orthodontist will provide guidance on how often to wear your retainers, but generally, they are worn full-time for the first few months and then at night thereafter to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions.
Yes, having braces doesn’t mean you have to sit out of sports activities. However, it’s important to take some precautions to protect your braces and teeth from potential injuries. One essential precaution is wearing a mouthguard while participating in sports. Mouth guards act as a protective barrier, shielding your braces, lips, cheeks, and tongue from impact during physical activities. They can help prevent cuts, bruises, and even more severe injuries to your mouth and braces.
Braces are not just for teenagers; they can be beneficial for patients of all ages! While it’s true that adolescence is often considered an ideal time for orthodontic treatment because the teeth and jaws are still developing, age alone isn’t a limiting factor for getting braces. Many adults choose to undergo orthodontic treatment to correct alignment issues, improve their bite, and enhance the appearance of their smile.
Achieve the Smile You’ve Always Desired
Traditional braces offer an effective and customizable solution for correcting various dental issues. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, schedule a consultation at our Harris, NY dental office by calling (845) 794-4545 to determine the best option for your needs. With proper care and regular adjustments, traditional braces can help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile.